Residents and holidaymakers flocked to Tauranga Racecourse for a day of family fun and excitement as part of the Interislander Summer Festival.

The festival brought with it a vibrant atmosphere and the crowds enjoyed thrilling racing action, live music and delicious local eats and drink.

'A day at the races is a great family outing and a summer tradition in New Zealand. All day entertainment for the kids allows the adults to relax and enjoy socialising whilst watching the races,” says Racing Tauranga spokesperson Abbie Davie talking about yesterday's event.

'This year's turnout has been amazing, it's great to see so many Tauranga residents here enjoying this great event.”

The Interislander Summer Festival has 34 events this season, with holiday races at some of the country's most picturesque racecourses from Ruakaka in the north, to Waikouaiti in the south.

Seetheraces.co.nz for more details about these and other major race days this summer.